Pumpkin Cookies with Cashew Frosting are the soft, tender bites of autumnal bliss you didn’t know you needed. Made with almond flour and real pumpkin puree, these cookies are moist, satisfying, and finished with a luscious cashew frosting that melts into each bite. They are gluten-free, wholesome, and perfect for cozy gatherings or a solo pumpkin-spiced moment.
Pumpkin desserts have deep roots in North American autumnal traditions, often tied to harvest festivals like Thanksgiving. Pumpkin pie has long been the star, but in recent years, pumpkin cookies have carved out their own cozy niche in fall baking. These gluten-free pumpkin cookies pay homage to the warmth and comfort of those traditions, while offering a modern, nourishing twist through the use of almond flour and plant-based ingredients.
The stars of this recipe are almond flour and pumpkin puree, which create an ultra-soft, chewy texture that feels almost cake-like. Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg give a warm, nostalgic flavor, while maple syrup adds natural sweetness. The cashew frosting, made with soaked cashews, lemon juice, and a hint of vanilla, provides a creamy, slightly tangy contrast that complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
Creating the perfect texture for gluten-free cookies is all about moisture balance. Almond flour can be dense, so the pumpkin puree and maple syrup bring necessary hydration and softness. The cashews for the frosting are soaked in hot water to ensure creaminess when blended. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape and texture during baking. The frosting is applied once the cookies are cooled, adding an indulgent finish without melting away.
Moist, fluffy pumpkin cookies made with almond flour and topped with dreamy cashew frosting. Gluten-free, naturally sweetened, and perfect for autumn cravings.
Drain and rinse soaked cashews. Blend them with lemon juice, maple syrup, water, and vanilla extract in a high-speed blender until completely smooth and creamy. Set aside or refrigerate.
In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, arrowroot starch, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
In another large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and uniform.
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir until a sticky dough forms.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 20 minutes to allow the dough to firm up slightly.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop dough into tablespoon-sized mounds and flatten slightly with fingers.
Bake for 14–16 minutes, or until edges are golden and tops are set.
Allow cookies to cool completely before spreading with cashew frosting. Use a spoon or piping bag for neat swirls.
These cookies are a gentle reminder that dessert can be cozy, comforting, and nourishing all at once. With their soft, spiced centers and cloud-like cashew frosting, they embody the warmth and joy of fall baking. The contrast between the moist crumb and the cool, creamy swirl of frosting creates a perfect harmony that wraps you in comfort. Whether you're sharing them at a festive gathering or enjoying one curled up with a book, they have a way of transforming a gray autumn afternoon into something golden and memorable.
These cookies pair beautifully with a hot mug of spiced chai, cinnamon tea, or a frothy pumpkin spice latte. They also make delightful gluten-free whoopie pies when sandwiched with a thick layer of frosting. For extra decadence, drizzle them with dark chocolate or sprinkle with flaky sea salt. You could even top the frosting with toasted coconut flakes or a dusting of cinnamon for an elevated visual and flavor profile. Hosting a gathering? Serve them alongside caramel-dipped apple slices or a maple pecan dip for a full dessert board experience.
Baking is a canvas for creativity, and these cookies are no exception. Try incorporating chopped walnuts, pepitas, or mini chocolate chips into the dough for texture and crunch. Swap the cashew frosting for a tangy cream cheese-style spread or a maple tahini drizzle for something unexpected. Add a dash of cardamom for a more exotic spice profile, or create a batch with ghost-shaped cookie cutters for a fun Halloween twist. However you choose to enjoy them, let these pumpkin cookies be a launching pad for your cozy, culinary adventures.